I’m stuck on a Psychology question and need an explanation.

In survey research, as well as in most empirical
work, researchers use operational definitions as opposed to general
definitions whenever possible. A general definition is just that—general
and non-specific—and usually descriptive only. Operational definitions
imply measurement in that when you use operational definitions, you
include the specific aspects of the term you are defining in a
measureable context. For example, operational definitions must include
information on how the construct/variable is measured and specific
detail about actual definition; these definitions usually include
empirical citations (e.g., “For the purpose of this study, satisfaction
with life is operationally defined as a general subjective assessment of
one’s subjective well-being using the 5-item Satisfaction with Life
Scale [Diener et al., 1985]”).

Keeping operational definitions in mind, the
Application for this week includes the essential first parts for your
Research Topic Proposal that you will submit for Week 5 and that you
identified in the Discussion. First, you will describe the problem/issue
(include a problem sentence within the problem statement). Second, you
will explain the purpose of the research study, related to the problem.
Third, you will explain which specific testable theories (two are
required) support your Survey Proposal of this research topic and drive
your hypotheses. Fourth, you will state your specific hypotheses (2–3
are required). Finally, you will include operational definitions of all
major concepts and constructs (citations required).

The Assignment (4- to 5-page paper):

• For the survey research topic you identified for this week’s Discussion:
  • Describe the research topic and the problem/issue you plan to examine (include a problem statement).
  • Explain the purpose of the research study.
  • Explain which specific testable theories (two are required) support
    your Survey Proposal of this research topic and drive your hypotheses.
  • State your specific hypotheses (2–3 are required).
  • Include operational definitions of major concepts and constructs.
    Then explain the relationship between operational definitions and
    measurement in your research.

Support your
Assignment with specific references to all resources used in its
preparation. You are to provide a reference list for all resources,
including those in the Learning Resources for this course.

By Day 7

Submit your Assignment by Day 7.

^{Reference: Diener, E., Emmons, R. A., Larsen, R. J., & Griffen, S. (1985). The satisfaction with life scale. Journal of Personality Assessment, 49(1), 71–76.}